What does an After-Action Report document?

An After-Action Report (AAR) serves to document a unit's actions and performances during a specific operation or training exercise. The primary purpose of this report is to analyze what occurred, identify lessons learned, and improve future operations or training. By focusing on unit actions for historical purposes, the AAR plays a critical role in capturing the details of decisions made, strategies employed, and outcomes achieved. This comprehensive account aids in evaluating effectiveness and can serve as a valuable resource for both current units and future operations.

In contrast, options regarding casualty statistics, unit budget expenditures, and training schedules do not encapsulate the broader intent of an AAR, which is not limited to administrative or financial details but rather emphasizes operational performance and the learning process following actions taken in the field.